I WOULD like to be afforded the opportunity to reply to 'British Democrat' (Letters, Sept. 30) who seems to have no knowledge of RE as taught in British schools.

As Britain is becoming more and more a multi-racial society, this is definitely reflected to different degrees in our schools, both primary and secondary. It is quite usual to expose children to customs, foods, dances and religions of other lands.

In my 38 years in the UK, I have taught RE in more than a dozen Catholic and C of E secondary schools, both grammar and comprehensive. In what is now called Year 9 (the former 3rd year), the syllabus includes the teaching of Comparative Religions, with focus on the main World Religions. Often ministers of those religions agree to come to talk to the pupils or welcome them at the different places of worship.

In the sixth form, if a student chooses to study RE, he or she has the opportunity to further their knowledge of other religions. 'British Democrat' seems to be under the impression that teachers choose what and how much to teach their pupils. Alas, the reality is quite different. The National Curriculum and its priorities rule the roost. If philosophy is not taught, 'British Democrat' should take issue with the powers-that-be, not with the teachers who simply teach what (and how) they are told to teach.

But really, was philosophy ever taught at school level in the UK? If it was, I stand chastised, but again, it was not the teachers who banned it.

As for denominational schools, they are created mainly in order to nurture the pupils in their faith. Who can blame them for 'indoctrinating' their charges? The parents obviously want their children there otherwise they would send them elsewhere.

Finally, some of the multi-racial citizens of Britain have brought with them some customs which are abhorrent to western societies. Would 'British Democrat' consider it true democracy if we were to start observing polygamy, female circumcision, arranged (really forced) marriages, all of which are carried out in the UK, albeit underhand? I think not.

Mrs M. F. Thompson (address supplied).

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